Health

Diabetes

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), diabetes is
the seventh leading cause of death in the United States. Adults with diabetes
are two to four times more likely than adults without diabetes to have heart
disease or experience a stroke. During any given year, individuals with
diabetes are more likely than those without diabetes to require hospitalization.

Increases in rates of diabetes (i.e., Type 2 diabetes) among adults have been
described by the CDC as a major public health threat. Obesity and physical
inactivity are strongly associated with the development of diabetes. Although
diabetes develops most often in overweight, middle-aged and older adults,
diabetes is becoming more common in overweight and obese children. Diabetes
can be prevented, or at least delayed, by exercise, good nutrition, and other
healthy lifestyle choices.